Vital Records Online (VRO) is a safe, secure, and easy-to-use service based in the US. It allows you to obtain Mississippi birth, death, and marriage certificates online, all from the comfort of your home. Your vital records will be delivered to your address safely and securely, and you can trust that your private information will remain confidential.
Summary:
Mississippi, also known as “the Magnolia State,” has an estimated population of nearly 3 million. The Mississippi State Board of Health was established in 1877 to protect and promote health throughout the state. In 1982, the Mississippi State Board of Health was replaced by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) to maintain vital records. The MSDH is responsible for ensuring public health protection in various ways, such as ensuring food and water safety and setting standards for health and care facilities.
The Office of Vital Records & Statistics (VRS) maintains and issues certified copies of vital records, including birth, death, fetal death, marriage, and divorce certificates for all events that occur in the state. Birth and death records for all Mississippi counties are available from 1912. Certified birth certificates can be ordered by the registrant, parent, guardian, spouse, adult child, legal representative, or anyone showing reason. Mississippi death records are available to requesters, such as the deceased’s immediate family members and legal representatives, who demonstrate a legitimate interest in the record. Certified marriage certificate copies can be ordered by parents, grandparents, adult siblings, adult grandchildren, guardians, or a legal representative authorized to do so.
If you are working on a genealogy project, the Office of Vital Records and Statistics may be able to assist you. Alternatively, you can explore many public archives to find out what information they contain, where you can obtain them, how they are used, and how to get certified copies.
Start your application online for MS vital records
Request a certified copy of live birth for your baby or child.
Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, are essential documents that serve various purposes in life, such as enrolling in school, getting married, joining the military, or traveling. They are crucial in proving your identity, citizenship, and family relationships.
In addition, vital records can be valuable in settling legal disputes, claiming an inheritance, and researching family history. They contain important information about your genealogy, including your ancestors’ full names, birth and death dates, and locations.
If you have lost a birth, marriage, or death certificate, it is advisable to file a police report and request a certified replacement as soon as possible.
You can find additional helpful information about vital records in the frequently asked questions section for birth, death, and marriage certificates.
Mississippi vital records can be ordered online, in person, or through mail. These records are maintained at both the county and state levels. Each county in Mississippi is responsible for certifying and issuing vital records for events that occur within its jurisdiction. To obtain a replacement vital record, you can easily search for your county in the complete list of Mississippi’s county vital record issuing agencies. The list provides locations, contact information, and online applications for requesting birth, death, and marriage certificates. Marriage certificates can be issued by both the state and counties and conveniently ordered online from any location through VRO.
❗️If you’re seeking ancestral records for genealogy research in Mississippi, they are freely available from various public archives.
Visiting Vital Records Office
Ordering Vital Records Online
Mississippi residents can request vital records online, in person (walk-ins), or by mail. Birth and death certificates can only be requested from the state, and it is the responsibility of the Mississippi State Department of Health to handle vital records. All information, corrections, changes, or copies of records must be acquired through this State Department.
Online requests are the most reliable and often the only option. The Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records produces and certifies the vital record copies if you meet the requirements and follow the detailed instructions for each birth, death, and marriage certificate. Each type of vital record has unique conditions, so it is necessary to understand them before proceeding.
The process becomes straightforward once you understand the requirements for each type of vital record. The type of certificate you need and how you order it impacts the associated costs, eligibility, requirements, and processing times. Whether ordering online, by mail, or in person, it is crucial to study the steps and conditions before requesting a certified copy of a vital record from the MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records.
Make sure to mail your documents, application, and payment for the fee to the correct vital record location that produces a certified copy of the original record.
Ordering Mississippi Vital Records online is quick and effortless and involves two simple steps:
(Choose additional options if you need to insure, expedite, or obtain premium customer support for your application.)
If you are an authorized person and meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply online to order a Mississippi birth, death, or marriage certificate. Confirm that you possess the required documents beforehand so you are prepared. You will be prompted to upload copies of these documents during the secure online application process.
Vital Records Online is a simplified system that helps you quickly collect and generate the required documents. It also directs you to the correct application and submits your packet to the health department’s vital records office, which issues the certified record.
The application is easy to execute from any device with an internet connection, and you can finish the entire process in as little as five minutes. Vital Records Online’s process helps ensure your application avoids rejections due to common mistakes or missing documents.
✔︎ Our $29 processing fee includes your automated document processing and first-class shipping & handling.
✔︎ Additional copies of your certified vital records can be purchased for the state’s fee during the online application to save future costs.
✔︎ Vital Records Online’s support team manages scanning and printing your application and documents. Learn more about how the online ordering and handling process works.
If you live near the state health department office that issues certified copies of original vital records, you can apply for them in person. Mississippi has a physical office where you can walk in and obtain vital records. Confirm if the office is open to the public for walk-ins and be prepared for long queues.
If you live abroad, ordering online is the most convenient way to request vital records. Ordering by mail or online is also an efficient approach to avoid difficulties when applying in person. You can rely on mail or online ordering if the local vital records office is closed or if you prefer to avoid potentially long queues. Mail is also suitable for those living out of state. However, online ordering is generally the most convenient method for residents living abroad.
The steps for applying for vital records are generally the same whether ordering in person or by mail. If you choose to apply in person at the vital records office, prepare to complete the following steps:
Additionally, when ordering by mail, you will need the following:
❗️ To avoid your application being denied due to mistakes or incomplete information, review the requirements for each vital record before mailing it.
❗️ Be sure that your documents, application, and payment are submitted to the correct health department that issues certified copies from the preserved original record.
❗️ If you choose to mail your application and documents manually, it is recommended to purchase mail tracking to confirm their arrival at the correct office.
Before gathering documents for your vital record application, it is essential to understand the conditions and requirements.
Proof of Identity for Verifying Authorization:
The Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records requires all applicants to prove their identity when ordering certified copies of Mississippi vital records. If you request a certified birth or death certificate, you must verify your identity by providing a valid, government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). If you do not possess a valid ID, the MSDH will accept two secondary forms of identity. Check the list of other acceptable IDs per certificate.
What Documents Are Required to Order Vital Records in Mississippi?
The Mississippi Bureau of Vital Records has specific eligibility requirements for each type of certificate and personal circumstance. Review the details before requesting certified copies of Alabama birth, death, and marriage records.
❗️ Without a fully completed, notarized application, your request will be returned, causing considerable delays in processing your order.
| Certificate | Required Information | ID Requirements Options | Secondary IDs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Date of Birth, Father's Name, Father's Name at Birth, Father's Race, Full Name at Birth, Full Name of Person of Record, Mailing Address, Mother's Maiden Name, Mother's Name, Mother's Race, Phone Number, Place of Birth, Purpose for the Certificate, Race, Sex, State File Number, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature |
Alien Registration Receipt, College ID, Driver's License, Permanent Residents Card, State ID, Temporary Resident Card, Tribal ID, US Military ID, US Passport, Work ID |
Medicaid Card, Snap/EBT Card, Social Security Card, Utility Bill, Veteran ID, Work ID |
| Death Certificate | Age at Death, Date of Death, Father's Name, Full Name of Person of Record, Funeral Director Name, Home Phone Number, Mailing Address, Mother's Name, Place of Death, Purpose for the Certificate, Race, SSN, Sex, State File Number, Work Phone Number, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature |
Alien Registration Receipt, College ID, Driver's License, Permanent Residents Card, State ID, Temporary Resident Card, Tribal ID, US Military ID, US Passport, Work ID |
Medicaid Card, Snap/EBT Card, Social Security Card, Utility Bill, Veteran ID, Work ID |
| Marriage Certificate | Bride Name, Date of Marriage, Groom Name, Home Phone Number, Mailing Address, Place of Marriage, Place where License Was Issued, Purpose for the Certificate, Work Phone Number, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature |
Alien Registration Receipt, College ID, Driver's License, Permanent Residents Card, State ID, Temporary Resident Card, Tribal ID, US Military ID, US Passport, Work ID |
Medicaid Card, Snap/EBT Card, Social Security Card, Utility Bill, Veteran ID, Work ID |
Who can request vital records in Mississippi?
If you need a certified copy of your vital records, you can request one by providing proof of identity with your application. If you want to request a birth, death, or marriage certificate on behalf of someone else, confirm that you are eligible for the type of certificate you need. The eligibility of third parties varies depending on the certificate type. Refer to the table below to determine who is authorized to request birth and death certificates.
If you are a legal representative, you must provide proof of your authorization to act on behalf of the person whose record you are requesting. Eligible family members are also required to show proof of their relationship.
To request a vital record on behalf of someone else, you can check the eligibility requirements for each birth, death, and marriage certificate to ensure that you are authorized to make the request.
Generally, the Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records allows a third party to make a legal request for a copy of the vital record as long as they have some form of familial or legal relationship to the individual on record, which they will need to provide proof of. However, you may be asked for additional documentation proving your eligibility as a third-party applicant.
| Certificate | Authorized People |
|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Adoption Agencies, Grandchildren, Grandparents, Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Other Person by Court Order, Person on Record, Siblings |
| Death Certificate | Children, Funeral Director, Grandchildren, Grandparents, Informant, Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Other Person by Court Order, Parents, Spouse |
| Marriage Certificate | Grandchildren, Grandparents, Legal Representative, Other Person by Court Order, Parents, Person on Record, Siblings, Spouse |
✔︎ If you can provide documentation of legal interest or hold a Power of Attorney from the person on record, you are eligible to request the vital record.
Do I need a notary with my application?
When requesting certified copies of birth or marriage certificates or death certificates from the Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records, there is no need to obtain notarized statements. This applies to ordering online, by mail, telephone, or in person. However, if you need to request an amendment to a record, a notarized statement is required.
❗️ A Notarized sworn statement may be required when amending a vital record certificate.
The costs of obtaining vital record replacements in Mississippi depend on the fees charged by the MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records for each type of certificate. The total cost will also depend on how you submit your application and whether a notary is required to prove your identity. When using Vital Records Online to order birth, marriage, divorce, or death records, the online Application Assistant starts at $29. The Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records charges $17.00 for a certified copy of a birth, death, or marriage record and $6.00 for additional copies of the same record ordered simultaneously.
| Certificate | Fee | Additional Copy |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | $17.00 | $6.00 |
✔︎ Additional copies can be requested during the same order to save future costs in case your vital records are lost, destroyed, or stolen.
VitalRecordsOnline.com processing fee is $29.
How long will it take to receive my vital records from Mississippi?
Processing and delivery times for birth, death, or marriage certificates can vary. Please refer to the table below to find out the current processing and delivery times. The time it takes to receive your vital record through mail can also be affected by the method you choose to submit your application and documents.
Ordering through Vital Records Online can simplify the process of gathering documents and submitting your application packet. Additionally, it comes with options to expedite your order for quicker processing of your documents and application packet.
Please consider that the processing and delivery times mentioned in the table are subject to change depending on the volume of requests received by the MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records.
| Certificate | Processing Time | Rush Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | 3 to 5 weeks | N/A |
| Death Certificate | 3 to 5 weeks | N/A |
| Marriage Certificate | 3 to 5 weeks | N/A |
| Divorce Certificate | N/A | N/A |
❗️ The processing and replacement duration of birth, death, or marriage certificates by MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records may increase based on a high volume backlog of orders.
❗️ A simple error, typo, or missing document can cause wait times to double, repeat shipping costs, or expose personal information.
Once you have submitted your application through Vital Records Online, you can keep track of your application by monitoring the order status. Additionally, you can track the application packet to the Mississippi HD, which is included in your order and has prepaid mail postage.
If you choose to mail your application packet to the Vital Records Health Department manually, it is advisable to purchase first-class mail tracking to verify successful delivery. Please remember that the Mississippi MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records delivers all vital records to your home through USPS first-class mail for added protection. However, please note that the department is not responsible for misplaced or lost certificates.
In case your birth certificate is lost, file a report immediately. A simple error or typo can result in your vital record being mailed to the incorrect address, exposing your personal information.
❓ Find more frequently asked questions below the Mississippi counties office locations directory.
An apostille is required when submitting a vital record to a foreign government. The Secretary of State Mississippi issues apostilles for vital records initially issued by the MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records.
You will need to provide the following information:
How can I get an apostille for a vital record?
If you need to obtain an apostille for vital records in Mississippi, it can only be done through the Secretary of State or Vital Records Online. Vital Records Online is a reliable service that offers apostille services for all 50 US states. It is recognized by various governments and organizations with legal validity in over 100 countries. The service covers apostilles for Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates, all with professional assistance. The entire process can be completed conveniently online in just three steps, starting at $149 (plus government fees).
After you finish preparing your apostille documents, we will send them to you using FedEx or DHL. The courier will deliver the documents directly to your doorstep, regardless of where you are in the US or the rest of the world. In most cases, you don’t need to get a physical copy of your papers, as you can complete the process online. We use reliable courier services for global delivery.
You can submit requests for vital record apostilles to the Secretary of State at the following addresses:
For express shipping (UPS, DHL, or Federal Express), submit the request to the physical address:
Secretary of State,
Capital Towers 125 S. Congress Street,
Jackson, MS 39201
For standard mail, use the following address:
Secretary of State,
Capital Towers 125 S. Congress Street,
Jackson, MS 39201
You can reach the office at 601-359-1615 or online at https://www.sos.ms.gov/business-services/apostilles-authentications.
The Bureau of Vital Records of the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has provided a list of common scenarios to help individuals acquire an amendment to their birth, marriage, or family member’s death certificate, as authorized by law. Different forms are required for different types of amendments. Supplemental changes are added to the original vital record, but the original document cannot be altered by any entity. The requirements for requesting changes or amendments vary based on the type of vital record. In some cases, amendments may require a court order, typically needing an attorney’s assistance. The MSDH – Bureau of Vital Records provides a straightforward process for correcting or amending vital records.
Correcting or amending vital records usually will require the following:
Learn more about correcting or amending birth, death, and marriage certificates.
Where can I search for free public records?
If you’re searching for free public records in Mississippi, many vital records are easily accessible to the public. Mississippi birth certificates become public records after 100 years, while death certificates become public records after 50 years. Mississippi marriage certificates that were issued before 1926 are already public records. You can search through Mississippi’s archives of birth, marriage, and divorce records to find the information you’re looking for. However, be prepared to devote significant time to reviewing the records.
Are Mississippi Vital Records Open to the Public?
Some third-party websites make it easy to research specific types of vital records. These websites are often not limited to your geographic location and can provide a good reference point when researching records. In Mississippi, most state records are available to the public. However, the accessibility of these records depends on the type of record you are looking for and the year in which the birth, death, or marriage occurred. It is important to note that the data on third-party sites may differ from official government records.
To find a record on a third-party website, the person requesting must provide the following information:
Mississippi residents have the right to inspect or obtain copies of public vital records under the Mississippi Public Records Act.
To ensure that you have the official certified copy of your Birth, Death, or Marriage Certificate, you can verify what the documents look like depending on where they were issued. Each state, county, and municipality creates its own designs of vital records. Informational copies of vital records usually have a stamp or large print across the face of the document that reads “Informational, Not a Valid Document to Establish Identity” or something similar. To confirm that your certificate is a certified copy, you can compare it with the official, certified documents in the county where it was issued.
Authorized Copy:
Certified copies, also known as authorized copies, are considered legal documents that can be used for official identification purposes. It’s important to note that these copies are only issued to individuals with a direct and tangible interest in the document. On the other hand, informational copies are not suitable for establishing identity.
Informational Copy:
There are different types of birth or marriage certificates available, such as short-form, unofficial (non-certified), “heirloom,” or “commemorative certificates.” However, it’s essential to understand that the informational copies of these certificates are only meant for personal reference or display purposes and are not official legal documents. While requesting informational copies, you do not need to provide a Sworn Statement. Informational copies are not acceptable for official purposes like establishing identity, obtaining a passport, or proving eligibility for benefits. They are mainly used for personal record-keeping or genealogical research. As per the Mississippi Public Records Act, citizens have the right to inspect or obtain copies of public records.
Find more references regarding birth, death, and marriage certificates in the resources section.
Visit the official Mississippi government website at https://msdh.ms.gov/page/31,0,109.html
